The Kings and Queens of England Sterling Silver Mini-Coin Collection by Franklin Mint
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Commemorative Set) · The Franklin Mint, founded by Joseph Segel in 1964. They are the most famous private mint for commemorative silver items and were officially recognized for their high-quality striking in the late 20th century.
Pattern: Kings and Queens of England series; introduced circa 1970; limited edition commemorative production.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Commemorative Set)
Maker
The Franklin Mint, founded by Joseph Segel in 1964. They are the most famous private mint for commemorative silver items and were officially recognized for their high-quality striking in the late 20th century.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). These are solid silver 'mini-coins' or medals; they contain no base metal core.
Dimensions
Each mini-coin is approximately 10mm to 13mm in diameter. The total silver weight for the full set of 43 coins is approximately 1.5 to 2.0 troy ounces.
Description
A complete commemorative set of 43 miniature sterling silver medals representing the monarchs of England from Edgar (959 AD) to Elizabeth II. This set was marketed as a historical educational piece, blending the value of precious metal with British royal history. The presentation in a carved wooden case with a viewing lens makes it a classic 1970s collector's display item.
Key Features
Portrait precision on a miniature scale; original display case with brass plaque; accompanying magnifying glass; historical sequence of monarchy.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). These are solid silver 'mini-coins' or medals; they contain no base metal core.
Finish & Decoration
Proof-like finish with frosted relief (cameo effect) against a mirrored background. Each coin features a portrait of a British monarch with their name and dates of reign.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'STERLING' or '.925' and 'FM' (for Franklin Mint) on the rim or reverse. Often includes a small 'P' or other mint mark indicating the year of strike.
Construction Details
Machine-struck using high-pressure die striking techniques typical of proof coinage to ensure sharp detail on a miniature scale.
Functional Features
Housed in a custom wooden display case with a glass top and red velvet inset; includes a magnifying glass for viewing the miniature detail.
Handle & Grip Details
The set includes a small brass-handled magnifying glass used specifically for viewing the fine details of the miniature portraits.
Craftsmanship Details
Highly skilled die-engraving required to represent recognizable portraits of monarchs at such a small scale; industrial-quality machine finish.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive Franklin Mint 'FM' hallmark; uniform diameter of coins; consistent frosted proof finish; original paperwork (Certificate of Authenticity) shown in auction thumbnail.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America (Pennsylvania), Franklin Center workshop of the Franklin Mint.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern Commemorative Era), specifically the 1970s following the rise of silver collecting and numismatic investment.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1975, based on the font of the brass plaque and the specific promotional style of Franklin Mint during this period.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the 1970s obsession with domestic collectibles and the preservation of heritage through 'limited edition' precious metal sets before the digital age.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. The coins show light natural tarnish (oxidation) which is common. The wooden case may have minor surface scuffs. The red velvet is prone to fading if exposed to UV light.
Value Estimate
$100 - $200 USD. Value is largely determined by the current 'spot price' of silver plus a small numismatic premium for the complete set and original display case.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with silver dip. Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth only if necessary. Store in a low-humidity environment to prevent the red sulfur in the velvet from tarnishing the silver rapidly.
Similar Pieces
Danbury Mint Royal Medallic sets or the full-sized Franklin Mint 'Kings and Queens' silver medals (which are much larger and heavier).
Interesting Facts
The Franklin Mint often produced these in 'mini' format to make them more affordable for the average collector during times of rising silver prices in the 70s.